Two new five litre direct injection V8 engines have been added to the 2010 model Jaguar XF range for the NZ market. These engines in the 5.0V8 and XFR models produce more performance with the same economy and two percent less emissions than the 4.2 litre V8 they replace.

The 5.0V8 model produces 283 kWs and 515 Nm of torque, while the supercharged XFR has 375 kWs and 625 Nm. They will sell for $159,990 and $209,990 respectively.

The new XFR is the first XF to carry the R badge, which defines Jaguar’s most performance focused cars. The XFR has had a 23 percent power hike, while torque is up 12 percent and with a 0-100 km/h acceleration time of 4.9 seconds. The naturally aspirated 5.0V8 has gained 29 percent more power and 25 percent more torque. Both V8s meet Euro5 emission regulations which are not mandatory until 2011.

The XFR has a sixth generation twin vortex supercharger, while the central spray direct fuel injection increases efficiency and torque. Variable camshaft timing improves throttle response and efficiency and a variable geometry inlet manifold on the naturally aspirated engine increases low and high end torque.

The new XFR has the active differential control and adaptive dynamics suspension previously only available in the top models of the XK and XJ range. The active differential is electronically controlled to vary its locking torque to each wheel depending on surface conditions and the amount of power applied to optimise traction. The adaptive dynamics suspension automatically adjusts the damper settings to suit road conditions and the way the car is driven, optimising the balance between ride comfort and handling and road holding. Both V8s have variable ratio speed sensitive power steering.

The six speed automatic has been given additional clutch plates and an uprated torque converter to handle the XFR’s added zest. The 2010 XFR is distinguished by 20 inch alloy wheels, revised bumpers and lower front air intakes, sill extensions, bonnet louvres and grille, four tailpipes and a boot lid spoiler.

The XFR’s front brakes at 380 mm diameter are the largest ever fitted to a Jaguar and come with ABS, EBD, EBA and cornering brake control.

Inside there are more unique details with soft grain leather and a dark oak veneer in the wood trimmed areas to complement the XFR specific dark aluminium mesh finish. Fourteen way adjustable sports seats include adjustable squab bolsters.